Iranian Schoolgirls Poisoned: Is Education Under Attack?
– Almost 700 girls have been poisoned by toxic gas in Iran since November in an apparent attempt to force their schools to shut down.
– The poisoned girls have reported the smell of tangerine or rotten fish before falling ill, and many have suffered respiratory problems, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.
– Parents and public frustration is growing, with some speculating that the poisonings are the work of hardliners who want to terrorize parents into not sending their girls to school.
Since November, almost 700 schoolgirls in Iran have been poisoned by toxic gas, leading many to believe that it’s a deliberate attempt to force their schools to shut down. No girls have died, but dozens have suffered from respiratory problems, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Public frustration continues to grow, with parents and students protesting outside government offices.
The Iranian government has launched an investigation into the matter, but the available information only indicates “the possibility of criminal and premeditated acts”. Meanwhile, parents are worried about the safety of their children and are calling on the government to ensure their safety.
Some have speculated that the poisonings are the work of hardliners who want to copy the Taliban in Afghanistan and the militant Islamist group Boko Haram in Nigeria by terrorizing parents to stop sending their girls to school. This is a worrying trend that must be stopped, as education is the fundamental right of every individual, regardless of gender.
Iran’s leaders have traditionally rejected criticism of its restrictions on women, such as the mandatory headscarf, and boasted about the number of women who attend university. However, if young girls do not finish school, college is just a dream. The poisonings must stop, and the Iranian government must ensure the safety of all students.
The comments of one schoolgirl, who says she has been poisoned twice, highlight the vague and misleading statements from the authorities. It’s time for the government to take action, find those responsible for these poisonings, and ensure that all students, especially girls, have access to a safe and secure learning environment.
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